Social Milieu

B. The social milieu in which the characters of East of Eaden live stressed the importance of honesty, filial piety, wealth and loyalty. Back in the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, people were much more honest. Lies were not only socially unacceptable, but also considered a great sin. As a result, many characters, such as Lee, Liza, Samuel and Aaron did not lie. The antagonist, Cathy, however, seldom told the truth, and was therefore regarded as a "monster." Filial piety, or the act of showing appreciation and caring for one's parents, was also promoted in the novel. The character that represented the epitome of goodness, Samuel Hamilton, was loved by all of his children, and died peacefully surrounded by them. His character foil, Cathy, was the true embodiment of evil. Because she abandoned her twin sons with a cold and firm heart, they, understandably, never showed filial piety. Economic wealth played a strong role in the lives of many Salinas residents and the story opened with Samuel Hamilton, a character who financially foiled Adam Trask. Despite his abilities and inventions, Samuel Hamilton was unable to create economic comfort for his family. On the other hand, Adam Trask, who inherited a large